You can now create your own itineraries to guide your C&O Canal exploration, or you can copy one of ours! Learn more about Itineraries.
Here’s the wonderful thing about Seneca Red Sandstone: Beyond its rich red color, fine grain and durability, this sandstone also possesses what workers called “quarry sap,” which actually made it easier to cut and carve when it was first mined. For this reason, the Seneca Sandstone Company set up their stonecutting mill in 1837—right at the quarry. Learn more.
Here’s the wonderful thing about Seneca Red Sandstone: Beyond its rich red color, fine grain and durability, this sandstone also possesses what workers called “quarry sap,” which actually made it easier to cut and carve when it was first mined. For this reason, the Seneca Sandstone Company set up their stonecutting mill in 1837—right at the quarry.
Using water from the Canal to power its water wheel and later a turbine, the mill used a toothless blade to cut sandstone at a rate of an inch an hour. The mill also cut granite and stone shipped from neighboring quarries.
Although the mill opened too late to provide blocks for Canal construction below Harpers Ferry, the red sandstone was in high demand once the mill was in operation. The most visible use of this cut sandstone is the iconic Smithsonian castle on Washington’s Mall. The mill was also used to cut granite and marble used in the U.S. Capitol and the Washington Monument.
Located 0.2 miles off the towpath on the berm side of the basin.
We know that to preserve something, you need to experience it, so we are proud to provide support to the C&O National Historical Park as their official philanthropic partner.
Please visit the National Park Service website for the following information:
For more information and nearby places to stay or grab a bite to eat, please visit our local tourism partners:
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There has been a lapse in appropriations, and a shutdown of the federal government is currently in effect. Much of the C&O Canal National Historical Park remains open to the public, however, the National Park Service is not able to operate as normal. Visitor services, including park visitor centers and other NPS-staffed facilities, will not be available. Inquiries to the National Park Service will not be received or responded to until the shutdown ends.
The C&O Canal Trust’s staff are currently working remotely. Scheduled Trust events and Canal Quarters reservations will continue as scheduled. While a federal government shutdown is in effect, visitors should not expect services typically provided by the National Park Service to be available. All visitors are urged to practice safety in the park and plan ahead. Be a good park steward by recreating responsibly and practicing Leave No Trace principles, respecting cultural and natural resources.
Information regarding the Department of Interior’s Operations in the Absence of Appropriations can be found here: https://www.doi.gov/shutdown.
When federal funding is restored, we look forward to continuing to work with our park partner to ensure the C&O Canal remains beautiful, safe, and welcoming for visitors today and for future generations. Love the Park? Help the Trust! Consider making a donation. Your support directly helps fund beautification, conservation, education, and preservation initiatives in the park.